Troops get OK to march in gay parade _ in uniform

FILE - In this July 16, 2011 file photo, two women, both active duty sailors in the Navy who gave their names as Nikki, left, and Lisa, kiss as they march in the Gay Pride Parade in San Diego. The Defense Department on Thursday, July 19, 2012 announced it is allowing service members to march in uniform in a gay pride parade for the first time in U.S. history. The department said it was making the exception for Saturday's San Diego Gay Pride Parade because organizers had encouraged military personnel to march in their uniform and the event was getting national attention. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File)
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FILE - In this July 16, 2011 file photo, two women, both active duty sailors in the Navy who gave their names as Nikki, left, and Lisa, kiss as they march in the Gay Pride Parade in San Diego. The Defense Department on Thursday, July 19, 2012 announced it is allowing service members to march in uniform in a gay pride parade for the first time in U.S. history. The department said it was making the exception for Saturday's San Diego Gay Pride Parade because organizers had encouraged military personnel to march in their uniform and the event was getting national attention. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File)
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"I think many people thought after `Don't Ask, Don't Tell' was gone, discriminatory things would be eradicated," Sala said. "But now these parades have become a very sticky subject as far as commanders using their own discretion because they are showing either a bias toward a pride parade, or the right view, which this is about recognizing who people are."

Before the repeal, gay troops could serve but could be discharged if they revealed their sexual orientation. At the same time, a commanding officer was prohibited from asking a service member whether he or she was gay.

More than 300 service members have signed up to participate this year in the San Diego parade. It was unclear how many will wear their uniform.

The Defense Department said in its message to the service members that they should adhere to policy regarding behavior while wearing their uniforms.

Service members in uniform cannot appear to endorse or selectively benefit groups or individuals, provide a platform for a political message, or appear to be commercially sponsored. They also must ensure their presence in uniform is not intended to increase sales and business traffic.

Air Force Officer Joanna Gasca, 47, was among those who risked marching last year in a T-shirt. Her commanding officer had given her permission to do so this year before Thursday's memorandum was issued.

"It was absolutely thrilling last year to walk down the street," the Air Force recruiter said. "But this year - to be able to march in uniform - wow! I'm speechless."